TN to set up Rs 2350 cr solar photovoltaic power park

The Tamil Nadu government today proposed a series of new initiatives in various sectors, including energy and power, running into many thousands of crores of rupees.

Chief Minister K Palaniswami made suo motu announcements using Tamil nadu Assembly rule No 110, often used by former chief minister Jayalalithaa to spell out her government’s various initiatives and measures.

Among the announcements made in the energy sector, the chief minister said the government will set up an Ultra Mega Solar Photovoltaic Power Park in Ramanathapuram district at an estimated cost of Rs 2350 crore.

State-run TANGEDCO will establish the 500 MW power park on Engineering Procurement Construction (EPC) basis at Naripaiyur and adjoining villages in the district, he said.

Palaniswami also announced setting up of nearly 130 new sub-stations and related power infrastructure in different parts of the state, besides upgradation of existing ones.

He recalled that various steps in this sector had ensured the state had overcome the severe power crisis and it has now become power surplus.

In the Industries sector, the chief minister proposed a Multi-Modal Logistics Park in neighbouring Tiruvallur district.

A joint initiative to be taken up with the Centre, the park will come up on 360 acres at an estimated Rs 1295 crore, he said, adding, it will address issues including congestion and pollution.

Palaniswami also announced developing the second stage of a SIPCOT Industrial Complex in Tuticorin.

As a first step, infrastructure such as inner roads, water supply, water drainage facilities, streetlights and other facilities will be developed at a cost of Rs 60 crore in the two years, Palaniswami said.

“This will pave the way for attracting Rs 500 crore of investment (at the new industrial site), besides direct job opportunities for 10,000 persons,” he said.